A large constrictor restricted to longleaf pine habitats.

Native status: Native; federally threatened

§ Quick facts

SizeLength 120–200 cm
Weight1–4 kg
LifespanWild 15–25 years
OrderSquamata
FamilyColubridae

§ Encyclopedia

Pituophis melanoleucus lodingi, commonly known as the black pinesnake or black pine snake, is a subspecies of nonvenomous snake in the family Colubridae. The species is endemic to southern Mississippi and southwestern Alabama. It is one of three subspecies of the species Pituophis melanoleucus.

Source: Wikipedia — Pituophis melanoleucus lodingi Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Large nearly-black or dark brown snake with subtle dorsal blotches; pointed snout.

Similar species. Northern Pine Snake (cream/tan background). Eastern Indigo Snake (uniform blue-black).

Voice. Loud hissing.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Small mammals, birds.

Behavior. Federally threatened subspecies of pine snake. Restricted to longleaf pine sandhills of AL, MS. Habitat loss is leading threat. Uses gopher tortoise burrows.

§ Range

Southeastern US

§ Habitat

Longleaf pine sandhills

§ Threats

Longleaf pine loss, road mortality.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the black pine snake is currently classified as Near Threatened.

§ What helps

Support longleaf pine restoration.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • USFWS Black Pine Snake Recovery
  • The Orianne Society
  • IUCN Red List 2007